Chicken Tempters
Creamy, crunchy chicken bites with pecans and celery, perfect as party appetizers or snacks for gatherings, offering a savory and nutty flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked and chopped chicken, finely chopped celery, and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl.
- Add cream cheese, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Mix everything well until evenly combined.
- Form the mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in chopped pecans and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Make sure to let the cream cheese soften before mixing for easier incorporation.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tempters make a fantastic appetizer for parties, paired with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad or alongside other finger foods. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with Easy Dirty Rice or a light vegetable dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. These chicken tempters can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to reheat them, do so gently in the microwave, but keep in mind that they are best served chilled for optimal flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tempters contains roughly 1412 calories, with 18g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 148g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these chicken tempters ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Just roll them in pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy. Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
Can I freeze chicken tempters?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken tempters. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with chicken tempters?
Chicken tempters pair beautifully with a variety of dips and sides. Consider serving them with fresh veggies and hummus, or alongside a cheese platter. For a heartier meal, complement them with Bonnie's Favorite Indonesian Pork Roast or a flavorful soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).